Hot Stone Massage

Hot stone massage uses water-heated stones to heat and massage your
body. This massage is a type of thermal hydrotherapy, which just means
the use of heated water to treat the body. The warmth of the heated
stones deeply relaxes your muscles and relieves stress.

Most massage therapists use basalt stones, because they
are non-porous and smooth and retain heat longer than other types of
stones. These beautiful stones come in various sizes. Larger ones are
usually placement stones that the therapist leaves in one spot on the
body for an extended time.

Some massage therapists use hot stones for energy work
by placing them along the body’s meridians (energy lines) or on the
chakras (energy points). Placing the stones along these key points can
stimulate movement of the energy known as qi or chi, which can help
release the effects of stress and facilitate healing.

Other potential benefits of hot stone massage include
the release of toxins, relief of pain, and improved circulation. The
combined healing properties of massage and heat bring many clients who
have a hot stone massage once back for more.

Heating and Caring for the Stones

To heat the stones, the massage therapist uses a
professionally designed heater with a thermometer for checking the water
temperature. The water temperature is generally between 110 and 130
degrees Fahrenheit. Because everyone has different sensitivity to heat,
it's important for the therapist to make sure the temperature of the
stones is appropriate for you. Always let you therapist know if the
stones feel too hot.

When using placement stones, the therapist will put a
barrier, such as a flannel sheet or terry cloth towel, between them and
your skin to avoid the risk of a burn.

For maintenance and hygiene of stones, therapists use
different techniques. Some wash the stones and change the water after
every client. Others use a spa oxidizer that breaks down bacteria in the
hot water, keeping the stones sanitized all day. Then at the end of the
day, the therapist empties the heating unit and washes and sanitizes
all the equipment.

Cold Stone Massage and Contrast Therapy

In addition to the thermal therapy of hot stones, some
massage therapists use cold stones. These marble stones are hand cut for
use in cold stone therapy, which is especially useful for injury and
inflammation. Cold stones can also be invigorating or provide a cooling
effect on hot days or for hot flashes.

Another option is alternating hot and cold stones, a
technique called contrast therapy. Contrast therapy takes advantage of
the benefits of both heat and cold. The contrasting temperatures expand
and constrict the blood vessels, stimulating blood flow and lymphatic
drainage.
Cautions and Contraindications

To ensure that hot stone massage is safe for you,
always make sure your massage therapist knows about all your medical
conditions and anything else affecting your body. If you are pregnant,
have high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes or are under a
healthcare provider's care for a serious medical condition, consult your
provider before receiving a hot stone massage.

Heat can make some skin conditions, such as eczema,
rashes, and psoriasis, worse. Also, avoid heat if you are taking
medication that causes skin hypersensitivity (such as antibiotics or
Accutane for acne). Be cautious about any area that is numb. Avoid heat
on varicose veins, open wounds, infected skin conditions, or
inflammation.

In general, avoid cold stones if you have high blood
pressure, heart disease, circulatory problems, reduced sensation, or
nerve damage. Also, avoid cold stones on your abdomen if you have
abdominal distress (discomfort, pain, bloating, gas cramping,
constipation, or diarrhea). However, warm stones moved in a circular,
clockwise direction may help relieve these symptoms.